A network device serving two or more networks using periodic times slots for transmission events is configured to determine that one of the periodic time slots on one of the networks has or soon will collide with one of the periodic time slots on the other network by processing time stamps for events on each network. Either of the periodic time slots may be occasionally shifted by a time shift amount to avoid a collision between the periodic time slots on each network. Shifting the periodic time slots may be performed by transmitting a Bluetooth connection parameter update packet.
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2. The method of claim 1, wherein the transmit window offset parameter is a Bluetooth transmitWindowOffset parameter.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically Bluetooth technology, addressing the challenge of optimizing data transmission timing to improve efficiency and reliability. The method involves adjusting a transmit window offset parameter, specifically the Bluetooth transmitWindowOffset parameter, to control the timing of data transmission windows. This parameter determines the offset between the start of a transmission window and a reference time, allowing for precise synchronization of data packets. By dynamically adjusting this offset, the system can reduce collisions, minimize latency, and enhance overall communication performance. The method may also include determining the optimal offset value based on factors such as network conditions, device capabilities, or user preferences. Additionally, the system may monitor transmission performance metrics, such as packet loss or latency, to further refine the offset parameter in real-time. This approach ensures efficient use of the communication channel while maintaining robust connectivity. The invention is particularly useful in environments with high interference or multiple devices competing for bandwidth, such as IoT networks or crowded Bluetooth ecosystems.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the time shift is determined to produce a minimum number of collisions.
A system and method for optimizing time shifts in a communication network to minimize collisions between signals. The technology addresses the problem of signal interference in wireless or wired networks where multiple devices transmit data simultaneously, leading to collisions that degrade performance. The method involves analyzing signal transmission patterns and dynamically adjusting time shifts to reduce the likelihood of overlapping transmissions. By calculating the optimal time shift, the system ensures that signals are spaced in time to avoid collisions, improving data throughput and reliability. The method may include monitoring network traffic, identifying potential collision points, and applying predictive algorithms to determine the most effective time shift adjustments. This approach is particularly useful in high-density networks where multiple devices compete for bandwidth, such as in IoT (Internet of Things) environments or wireless sensor networks. The solution enhances network efficiency by minimizing retransmissions and reducing latency, ultimately improving overall system performance.
5. The method of claim 1, further including determining the relative drift rate between the first reference clock and the second reference clock.
A system and method for clock synchronization in distributed networks addresses the challenge of maintaining precise time alignment across multiple nodes, which is critical for applications such as financial transactions, telecommunications, and scientific measurements. The invention involves a synchronization process where a first reference clock and a second reference clock are used to generate synchronized timing signals. The method includes comparing the timing signals from the two reference clocks to detect and correct any discrepancies, ensuring that the clocks remain aligned over time. Additionally, the method determines the relative drift rate between the two reference clocks, which allows for predictive adjustments to compensate for gradual time deviations caused by environmental factors or clock imperfections. By continuously monitoring and adjusting the clocks based on their drift rates, the system achieves high-precision synchronization, reducing errors in time-sensitive operations. This approach is particularly useful in environments where external time sources may be unreliable or unavailable, ensuring robust and accurate timekeeping across distributed systems.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the first network is a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) network.
A method for wireless communication involves establishing a connection between a first network and a second network to facilitate data transfer. The first network is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) network, which is a short-range, low-power wireless technology designed for efficient data exchange between devices. The second network may be a different type of wireless network, such as Wi-Fi or cellular, enabling broader connectivity. The method includes configuring the BLE network to operate in a specific mode, such as advertising or scanning, to initiate communication with the second network. The BLE network may also handle authentication and encryption to ensure secure data transmission. The method further involves managing power consumption by optimizing the BLE network's duty cycle or adjusting transmission intervals. The second network may relay data to external systems or cloud services, expanding the functionality of the BLE-connected devices. This approach enhances interoperability between low-power BLE devices and higher-bandwidth networks, addressing limitations in range and data throughput while maintaining energy efficiency. The method is particularly useful in IoT applications where devices require both local and wide-area connectivity.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the second network is a BLE network.
A system and method for wireless communication involves a first network and a second network, where the second network is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) network. The first network may be a Wi-Fi network, and the method includes establishing a connection between a device and the first network, then transitioning the device to the second network for reduced power consumption. The transition may occur based on predefined criteria, such as low data activity or a specific time interval. The device may periodically switch between the networks to maintain connectivity while optimizing power usage. The BLE network is used for low-energy communication tasks, such as sensor data transmission or periodic status updates, while the first network handles higher-bandwidth tasks. The system ensures seamless handoff between networks to maintain continuous communication without user intervention. This approach is particularly useful for IoT devices that require long battery life but still need occasional high-bandwidth connectivity. The method may also include authentication and security protocols to ensure secure transitions between networks.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the device is a slave device with respect to the first network, and wherein the device is a master device with respect to the second network.
This invention relates to network communication systems where a device operates as both a slave device in one network and a master device in another network. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable communication in multi-network environments where a single device must manage different roles across distinct networks. The device acts as a slave in the first network, meaning it receives commands or data from a master device in that network. Simultaneously, the same device functions as a master in the second network, controlling other slave devices within that network. This dual-role functionality enables seamless integration and coordination between the two networks, allowing the device to relay information, commands, or data between them. The invention ensures that the device can handle the distinct communication protocols and timing requirements of each network while maintaining synchronization and minimizing latency. This approach is particularly useful in industrial automation, IoT systems, or other applications where devices must bridge different network topologies or protocols. The solution optimizes resource usage and reduces the need for additional intermediary devices, improving overall system efficiency and reliability.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the device is a slave device with respect to the first network, and wherein the device is a slave device with respect to the second network.
A method for managing network communication in a system where a device operates as a slave device in two distinct networks. The device is configured to communicate with a first network and a second network, where in both networks, the device functions as a slave device, meaning it does not initiate communication but responds to requests from master devices. The method involves the device receiving data from the first network, processing the data, and then transmitting the processed data to the second network. The device may also receive data from the second network, process it, and transmit the processed data to the first network. The processing step may include modifying, filtering, or converting the data to ensure compatibility between the two networks. The method ensures seamless data exchange between the two networks while maintaining the slave role of the device in both. This approach is useful in systems where a device must relay or bridge data between two separate networks without acting as a master in either. The method may also include error handling, such as detecting and correcting data transmission errors, to ensure reliable communication. The device may use different communication protocols for each network, requiring protocol conversion during processing. The method optimizes data flow between networks while preserving the slave status of the device in both.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the determining of the collision comprises comparing the end of the first time slot to the start of the second time slot based on the duration of the first time slot being greater than the duration of the second time slot.
This invention relates to time slot collision detection in communication systems, particularly for avoiding interference between overlapping or adjacent time slots. The problem addressed is the need to accurately identify collisions between time slots of different durations to prevent data transmission errors in wireless or networked environments. The method involves analyzing two time slots to determine if a collision occurs. The first time slot has a longer duration than the second time slot. The collision detection process compares the end of the first time slot to the start of the second time slot. If the end of the first time slot occurs after the start of the second time slot, a collision is detected. This ensures that overlapping or adjacent time slots do not interfere with each other, maintaining data integrity in communication systems. The method may be part of a broader system for managing time slot allocation in networks, where time slots are dynamically assigned to devices or channels. By detecting collisions based on duration differences, the system can adjust scheduling to prevent conflicts, improving efficiency and reliability in data transmission. This approach is particularly useful in wireless networks, satellite communications, or any system where precise timing is critical to avoid interference.
13. The method of claim 11, wherein the determining of the collision comprises determining the collision based on the duration between the end of the first time slot and the start of the second time slot being between zero and the sum of the duration of the first time slot and the duration of the second time slot.
This invention relates to collision detection in time-division multiplexing (TDM) systems, particularly for wireless or wired communication networks where multiple devices share a communication medium. The problem addressed is ensuring accurate and efficient detection of collisions between time slots assigned to different devices, which is critical for maintaining data integrity and network performance. The method involves analyzing the timing relationship between two consecutive time slots to determine if a collision has occurred. Specifically, the collision is detected based on the duration between the end of the first time slot and the start of the second time slot. If this duration is between zero and the sum of the durations of both time slots, a collision is identified. This means the time slots overlap or are too close, indicating a potential conflict in transmission. The method ensures that even minor timing discrepancies or overlaps are detected, preventing data corruption and improving synchronization in the network. It is particularly useful in high-density communication environments where precise timing is essential. The approach provides a reliable way to monitor and manage time slot assignments dynamically, enhancing overall system reliability.
15. The device of claim 14, wherein the transmit window offset parameter is a Bluetooth transmitWindowOffset parameter.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically Bluetooth technology, addressing the challenge of optimizing data transmission timing to improve efficiency and reliability. The device includes a transmitter configured to send data packets to a receiver over a wireless channel, with a mechanism to adjust the timing of these transmissions. A key feature is the use of a transmit window offset parameter, specifically the Bluetooth transmitWindowOffset parameter, which controls the timing offset for data transmission windows. This parameter allows the device to dynamically adjust the start time of transmission windows relative to a reference timing structure, such as a timing frame or slot. By fine-tuning this offset, the device can reduce collisions, minimize latency, and improve synchronization with other devices in the network. The system may also include a receiver configured to detect and process incoming data packets, as well as a controller to monitor transmission conditions and adjust the transmit window offset parameter accordingly. The invention aims to enhance Bluetooth communication performance by optimizing the timing of data transmissions, particularly in environments with multiple devices or varying interference conditions.
17. The device of claim 14, wherein the time shift is determined to produce a minimum number of collisions.
A system for managing wireless communication in a network environment addresses the problem of signal interference and collisions between devices operating on overlapping frequency channels. The system includes a controller that monitors communication activity across multiple channels and identifies potential collisions based on timing and frequency usage patterns. The controller adjusts the timing of transmissions for one or more devices to reduce or eliminate collisions, improving overall network efficiency and reliability. The time shift applied to transmissions is calculated to minimize the number of collisions, ensuring that devices operate without disrupting each other. The system may also include mechanisms for dynamically adjusting the time shift based on real-time network conditions, such as changes in device activity or environmental interference. This approach enhances communication performance in dense wireless networks where multiple devices compete for limited frequency resources. The system is particularly useful in environments like industrial IoT, smart cities, or other applications where reliable wireless communication is critical.
18. The device of claim 14, wherein the processing logic is configured to determine a relative drift rate between the first reference clock and the second reference clock.
A system for clock synchronization in distributed networks addresses the challenge of maintaining precise time alignment across multiple nodes. The system includes a first reference clock and a second reference clock, each generating time signals for synchronization purposes. Processing logic is configured to compare the time signals from both clocks to detect discrepancies. The system further includes a correction mechanism that adjusts the time signals to compensate for detected discrepancies, ensuring synchronization between the clocks. The processing logic is also configured to determine the relative drift rate between the first and second reference clocks, which allows for predictive adjustments to maintain synchronization over time. This drift rate calculation helps account for gradual time deviations caused by environmental factors or clock inaccuracies, improving overall system reliability. The system may be used in applications requiring high-precision timing, such as telecommunications, financial transactions, or distributed computing environments.
21. The device of claim 20, wherein the processing logic is configured to compare the end of the first time slot to the start of the second time slot based on the duration of the first time slot being greater than the duration of the second time slot.
This invention relates to a device for managing time slots in a communication system, addressing the problem of efficiently scheduling overlapping or adjacent time slots to prevent conflicts and optimize resource utilization. The device includes processing logic that compares the end of a first time slot to the start of a second time slot, ensuring proper sequencing and avoiding overlaps. Specifically, the processing logic is configured to perform this comparison when the duration of the first time slot is longer than the duration of the second time slot. This ensures that the second time slot does not start before the first time slot ends, maintaining synchronization and preventing data collisions. The device may be part of a larger system for scheduling, coordination, or resource allocation in wireless or wired communication networks, where precise timing is critical. The invention improves reliability and efficiency by dynamically adjusting time slot management based on their relative durations, particularly in scenarios where variable-length time slots are used. This solution is applicable in systems requiring precise timing control, such as 5G networks, IoT devices, or industrial automation systems.
22. The device of claim 20, wherein the processing logic is configured to determine the collision based on the duration between the end of the first time slot and the start of the second time slot being between zero and the sum of the duration of the first time slot and the duration of the second time slot.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to detecting collisions between time slots in a time-division multiple access (TDMA) or similar scheduling framework. The problem addressed is the need for accurate and efficient collision detection to prevent data transmission conflicts in shared communication channels. The device includes processing logic that analyzes time slots to determine if a collision has occurred. The logic evaluates the duration between the end of a first time slot and the start of a second time slot. A collision is detected if this duration is between zero and the sum of the durations of the two time slots. This means the time slots either overlap or are too close to each other, creating a potential conflict. The processing logic ensures that time slots do not interfere by enforcing a minimum separation based on their individual durations. The device may also include a transmitter and receiver for wireless communication, and the processing logic may further adjust scheduling parameters to avoid future collisions. The system is designed for use in wireless networks where precise timing is critical to maintain data integrity and prevent transmission errors. The collision detection method helps optimize channel utilization while minimizing interference.
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June 15, 2020
May 28, 2024
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